Wildlife

Fisher Welfare in North American Forests

Fishers are medium-sized mustelids recovering in parts of North America but still facing trapping, rodenticide poisoning, and old-growth forest loss.

Key Facts

Fishers were nearly extirpated from much of their range by the early 20th century
They are one of the few predators that regularly prey on porcupines
Rodenticide poisoning from illegal cannabis grow sites is a significant mortality cause
Old-growth forest structures with large fallen logs are essential for denning
Reintroduction programs have been successful in several western US states

Welfare Considerations

Rodenticide poisoning causes internal bleeding and prolonged suffering before death. Trapping causes pain and stress. Fishers are highly habitat-specific; old-growth loss reduces denning sites forcing animals into suboptimal areas. Kits in dens are vulnerable to logging disturbance. Fishers that survive sub-lethal rodenticide exposure may suffer impaired hunting ability.

What You Can Do

Advocate for elimination of toxic rodenticides in forested areas
Support fisher reintroduction programs in the western United States
Donate to research on rodenticide impacts on wildlife
Oppose old-growth logging in fisher denning habitats
Support trail camera monitoring to assess fisher population trends